Kihl ‘Yahda Christian White: Master Haida Artist

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This exhibition is the first major solo exhibition of Haida artist Kihl ‘Yahda, Christian White. Guest curated by Sdahl Ḵ'awaas, Lucy Bell, also of the Haida Nation, the exhibition features artworks that span the entirety of Christian’s 50-year career, as well as collaborative works from several of his apprentices.

Christian White is of the Yahgulaanas Haida Raven Clan. Influenced by his father Chief Edensu, Morris White, Christian and his family have been major forces in keeping the Haida culture, art and language alive. Early highlights of his career include the creation of a 35-foot pole with his father, and the carving of a sculpture titled Raven Dancer, which was purchased by the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver, BC, when he was only 22 years old and the recent Tluuwée Kwiiyaas, a 52-foot canoe.

He is best known for his intricate argillite carvings and inlay work and monumental works. Christian also creates wood carved masks and boxes, gold and silver jewelry, and steamed cedar canoes. He began carving argillite at fourteen and has been working as a full-time artist since the age of seventeen. In 2005, Christian constructed a traditional longhouse in his home village of Old Massett which is the home of Tluu Xaada Naay Society and dance group.

Christian is a founding member of the Old Massett Repatriation Committee. He has traveled to help bring home over 500 Haida Ancestors and has engaged with some of the 12,000 Haida Belongings held in museums worldwide, bringing inspiration and knowledge back to his community. 

Exhibition Supporters

Eric and Jennifer Martin through Nighthawk Fund at Aqueduct Foundation

Visit Us

We are located at 639 Hornby Street (between Georgia Street and Dunsmuir Street) in Downtown Vancouver. We are a little hard to find as our entrance is in a courtyard. Look for the sandwich board on Hornby Street and climb the short stairway. 

A wheelchair accessible path is also located between Christ Church Cathedral and Cathedral Place on Georgia Street. This takes you through the courtyard and to the Gallery entrance.

Purchase your tickets in advance and enjoy the exhibition!

On view from February 1, 2025 - February 1, 2026. 

Media

Christian White Master Haida Artist at the Bill Reid Gallery
Miss 604

Master Haida carver Christian White is getting a retrospective at the Bill Reid Gallery
The Georgia Straight

Bill Reid Gallery Premieres Retrospective of Master Haida Artist Kihl 'Yahda Christian White
Broadway World

Master Haida Artist to Debut at Bill Reid Gallery in Vancouver 
Terrace Standard